Abstract:
A system, method, and circuits for power efficient margining in a differential output driver that includes segments connected to outputs of the driver. Each segment can be configured independently to different states by activating corresponding transistor combinations. In a transmitting state, the transistors transmit data by establishing current paths between the driver outputs and a positive supply rail or a ground rail. In a margining state, the transistors are statically configured to form current paths that differ from those of the transmitting state, such that the segment contributes substantially a same differential impedance between the driver outputs as would be contributed by the segment when in the transmitting state, while contributing a different common mode impedance than in the transmitting state. The current paths of the margining state extend through transistors that transmit data in the transmitting state.
Abstract:
A method and system for performing a duty cycle correction and quadrature error correction for a quarter-rate architecture TX/RX communication system, including correcting a duty cycle error between a first clock signal and a second clock signal, and correcting a quadrature error between a third clock signal and a fourth clock signal.
Abstract:
Various embodiments provide for data sampling with loop-unrolled decision feedback equalization. In particular, some embodiments provide for an unrolled first-tap Decision Feedback Equalizer (DFE) loop that comprises parallel data samplers that each include a tri-state output.
Abstract:
Various embodiments provide for a data sampler with one or more capacitive digital-to-analog converters (DACs) for adjusting a threshold voltage range of the data sampler. According to some embodiments, two or more capacitive DACs can be used to set a threshold voltage for a data sampler and, by doing so, serve as a trigger mechanism for the data sampler.
Abstract:
Various embodiments provide for quarter-rate data sampling with loop-unrolled decision feedback equalization (DFE) that uses a two-summer (e.g., two-summing node) approach. For example, some embodiments provide for quarter-rate data sampling comprising a plurality of unrolled first-tap DFE loops, and two summers and a two-to-one multiplexer for each of the other tap loops used for direct feedback (e.g., second tap, third tap, fourth tap, etc.)
Abstract:
The present disclosure relates to a method and apparatus for detecting clock and data recovery loop saddle-point locking in an electronic circuit. Embodiments may include receiving a signal at a primary clock and data recovery (“CDR”) loop associated with the electronic circuit and processing the signal using at least one of a first order CDR loop and a second order CDR loop included within the primary CDR loop. Embodiments may further include determining whether a fast-phase lock module is required, wherein determining includes determining two transitions in a sampling triplet. If it is determined that the fast-phase lock module is required, embodiments may include providing a trigger signal to the fast-phase lock module. Embodiments may further include receiving the trigger signal at the fast-phase lock module associated with the electronic circuit and performing a fast-phase lock operation on the signal.